Pradhan refutes, clarifies
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 14, 2011:
Pradhan of Moidangpok Gram Panchayat Thokchom Gambhir has clarified that he had only opened black firing for self protection after a gang who was trying to steal solar street lamps chased him and he had not assaulted any person.
Addressing a press conference today, Gambhir reacted strongly to the charges levelled against him by the Upa-Pradhan who alleged that the Pradhan not only opened fire at his house but also assaulted another person.
The allegations have been published in some section of the media today.
A resident of Moidangpok Mamang Leikai under Imphal West district, 60-year old Pradhan Gambhir recounted that he came across a gang trying to steal solar street lamps near Recent Youth Club building at around 10 pm on January 12. At that time, there was no electricity.
He shouted to inquire who were they.
One of the gang members shouted back warning against approaching.
Fortuitously, electricity came at the moment and he could identity one Yengkhom Irabot (52) of Moidangpok Maning Leikai among the gang.
All the gang members were armed and they started chasing after him.
After rushing to his house, the Pradhan took out his license double-barrel shot gun and opened black firing at a nearby open space, Gambhir informed.
So, the allegation of opening fire at the house of Upa-Pradhan Sanjenbam Brojen (57) of Moidangpok Maning Leikai and assaulting a gang member like Irabot are baseless and unfounded, Gambhir asserted, adding that the allegations are politically motivated to assassinate his political career.